Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

As part of the review, I am considering a waiver scheme for low income families. There is an Ombudsman's report on the matter which will feed into the process. The intention is to regulate the market in such a way that we can achieve maximum efficiency and, therefore, reduce prices.

We must also be mindful of the fact that under the landfill directive, we have to move away from landfill. Therefore, we have to find greater means of recycling. We must deal with and dispose of waste other than on landfill sites. There are big issues to be considered. I am conscious of the fact that we need a competitive tendering arrangement to keep prices as low as possible and include a waiver scheme for people on social welfare, those living alone or on low incomes generally.

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